First Nations from Across Canada to Gather in Gatineau for AFN Special Chiefs Assembly December 10 -12, 2013

MEDIA ADVISORY

(Ottawa, ON) - First Nation leaders, Elders, youth and other delegates from across Canada will gather in Gatineau (QC) December 10-12, 2013 for the Assembly of First Nations (AFN) Special Chiefs Assembly under the theme “Drawing Strength from Within - Coming Together as Nations for Change.” The Special Chiefs Assembly is a national forum to engage on strategy and action to address the priorities facing First Nation citizens and communities.

Highlights of the Assembly include key discussions and strategy on Comprehensive Claims Reform, Treaty Implementation, First Nations Control of First Nations Education, “Towards a First Nations Energy Strategy”, “Supporting Safety and Security for our People and Communities”, Indian Residential Schools, Youth Engagement, Health and International Priorities.

AFN National Chief Shawn A-in-chut Atleo announced yesterday that he will be participating in memorial services for Madiba Nelson Mandela in Johannesburg, South Africa on Monday, December 9 and Tuesday, December 10. He will provide opening remarks on Tuesday, December 10 by video at approximately 9:00 a.m.